I wandered into AIP when it first reopened. Alex greeted me and sold me one of the best swimsuits I’ve ever owned. I’d never seen anything like it and I’ve  never seen anyone with it. That’s the kind of boutique American in Paris is. She finds all sorts of cool unique pieces for the store while traveling the world. This women’s boutique is more than just a shop—it’s a vibe.

I asked Ali to help style some of the pieces for The Hive’s Veronica Beard Trunk Show, and give them the Ali twist. She always keeps it classic but also puts a bit of a modern spin on it. Check out her three looks with Veronica Beard’s newest arrivals. They made me realize I need that plaid blazer and suede jacket!

After a busy kid-filled summer I made it into Era, Old Town's newest boutique nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. As a wardrobe stylist, I have a different point of view when it comes to shopping because I'm not typically there browsing for myself. If you see me around town I'm typically shopping and researching for clients.

There’s no better place to share how to shop like a pro than in our beloved town of Alexandria, so I thought I’d kick off a little series in which I give you very specific ways to shop at each of our local boutiques. Let’s begin with The Hive…

Fashion isn’t about dressing in head-to-toe designer or only wearing the most luxurious things you can find—it’s about expressing who you are.